The decision letter sets out the Secretary of State’s approach to carbon emissions, confirming again that the  approach set out in the National Policy Statement for National Networks (“NPSNN”) continues to be relevant in light of international obligations and domestic obligations related to reducing carbon emissions that have been introduced since the NPSNN.

Of note, the Secretary of State accepted that a designation by HM Treasury as being of outstanding scenic, historic or scientific interest pursuant to s.31(1)(b) of the Inheritance Tax Act 1984  was a relevant and important matter requiring consideration, but that given that it was not a planning or formal heritage designation, it should be afforded little weight in the planning balance.

Michael Fry instructed by Womble Bond Dickinson acted on behalf of the applicant, National Highways Limited during the six month examination into this nationally significant infrastructure project. 
Rebecca Clutten appeared for the Berry Hall Estate instructed by Savills.